John Ringling

John Ringling: The Entrepreneur Behind the Greatest Show on Earth

John Ringling was an American entrepreneur who is best known as one of the founders of the Ringling Brothers Circus. Born on May 31, 1866, in McGregor, Iowa, John was the sixth child of August Ringling and Marie Salome Juliar. He grew up in a family of circus performers, with his brothers Al, Gus, Otto, Alf, and Charley, and his younger siblings Henry and Ida.

Despite coming from a family of performers, John had a different calling. He attended school in McGregor and later moved to Chicago to work as a bookkeeper. However, the circus was in his blood, and he soon joined his brothers in launching their debut circus show, "The Ringling Brothers United Monster Shows, Great Double Circus, Royal European Menagerie, Museum, Caravan, and Congress of Trained Animals," in the early 1870s, charging an admission price of one cent.

John's non-circus business ventures were equally successful. He directed New York's Chatham and Phoenix National Bank and founded Florida's John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. He was also behind the merging of his family's circus with the Barnum & Bailey Circus, an event that occurred in 1919, creating the "Greatest Show on Earth."

John's personality traits, attitudes, values, and goals were what set him apart from others in the industry. He was a visionary, always looking for new ways to expand his business. He was also a shrewd businessman, with an eye for detail and a talent for marketing. Above all, he was a family man who cherished his wife and children.

Before becoming famous, John faced many challenges and opportunities. He had to work hard to establish himself in the circus industry, and he faced stiff competition from other performers. However, he never gave up, and his perseverance paid off in the end.

John's family life was also an important part of his story. He married art collector Mable Burton, and their marriage lasted until her death in 1929. The following year, he married Emily Haag Buck. He had three children, John Ringling Jr., Robert Ringling, and Henry Ringling.

John was linked to many other people in the industry, including his friends, colleagues, rivals, and fans. One of the most famous performers who worked with his circus was the "Missouri Giantess" Ella Ewing.

In conclusion, John Ringling was an American entrepreneur who made a name for himself in the circus industry. His vision, talent, and hard work helped him create the "Greatest Show on Earth," and his legacy continues to inspire many to this day.